Self guided coping strategies

If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties and you’d like information about coping strategies, we encourage you to access our various online self help resources.

Transitioning to university is often difficult. University life presents a number of new challenges and often marks a significant change from previous routines. It comes with a wide range of new responsibilities, pressures and expectations that are both internally and externally imposed.

Resources

Macquarie University's Counselling Service has prepared the following resources which can be viewed on iLearn:

  • managing exam stress
  • dealing with depression
  • relaxation skills

You can also enrol into our online courses UniWellbeing and WellbeingWISE.

Note: These resources are not a replacement for professional help. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000 for more services.

Tips

Take it slow

University is not a sprint. Take your time, be curious and learn to enjoy learning. Don't be afraid to change directions when a path you’re on no longer feels right. You can do this by:

  • switching degrees
  • reducing your study load
  • taking time off and away from study when life outside of University needs more attention.

Be present

There is so much more to university than study, lectures and academic learning. University is a place for finding your people and developing your sense of self.

  • Engage in student life through activities and student clubs.
  • Find a quiet place to sit, be present, and take things slowly by reading or listening to music.
  • Take advantage of the library and the facilities and the spaces we have on campus.

Ask for help and get advice

Universities are wonderfully inclusive places. While the University can seem like a daunting institution at times, there are many kind, intelligent, patient, caring and wonderfully brilliant and passionate people who are a part of tertiary education.

  • If you are struggling mentally, physically, psychologically, reach out to our support services.
  • Read the course handbook and unit guides to know what’s coming in terms of assessments and exams.
  • Talk to family and friends about how they managed the transition to University.